Ensure Your Home is Winter-Ready with These Tips from An Expert
As the weather gets colder and the days get shorter, it's time to start winter-proofing your home for the months of January and February.
No one wants to deal with a burst pipe or a broken furnace in the middle of a snowstorm, so it's important to take proactive steps to ensure your home can withstand the winter months.
Fortunately, we've got you covered. Read on for advice from a certified home inspector on preparing your home for winter.
1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
The first line of defense against winter weather is your roof. Make sure that there are no loose or missing shingles and that your gutters are clean and free of debris.
Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause serious damage to your roof.
While you're at it, look at your chimney and ensure there are no cracks or loose bricks.
2. Check Your Windows and Doors
Next, take a walk around your home and check all the windows and doors to ensure they're properly sealed.
If you have single-pane windows, now is an excellent time to upgrade to double-pane windows—not only will they help keep warmth in, but they'll also reduce noise pollution from outside.
If you feel drafts coming from around your doors or windows, use weatherstripping or caulk to seal up any gaps.
3. Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
This one is important for both safety and insurance purposes.
Most home insurance policies require that you have working smoke detectors in your home, so it's important to test them regularly (at least once a month) and replace the batteries as needed.
You should also have at least one carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home. If you still need to get them, now is a good time to invest in some!
4. Service Your HVAC System
Before the coldest weather hits, it's a good idea to have your furnace serviced by a professional.
This will help prolong its lifespan and ensure it's running as efficiently as possible—both of which will save you money in the long run.
Once winter arrives, make sure to change your furnace filter regularly (once every three months is usually sufficient).
Conclusion
These are just a few things you can do to prepare your home for winter weather.
By taking these steps now, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and rest assured knowing that your home is safe and sound when temperatures drop.
Give us a call for a winter home maintenance checkup or book online at https://www.greenscenehomeinspections.com/onlinebooking today!
